iron1 nouniron2 verbiron3 adjective
ironi‧ron1 /ˈaɪən $ ˈaɪərn/ ●●● S2 W3 noun 
WORD ORIGINiron1
Origin:
Old English isern, irenEXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- iron ore
- a window with iron bars on it
- My doctor said I need more iron in my diet.
- He kept her prisoner in her own home and threatened to electrocute her on a sunbed and burn her with an iron.
- Prohibited items should include gallows and leg irons.
- Start with a five-hundred pound piece of cast iron sitting on the floor.
Longman Language Activatorto use an opportunity
: take the opportunity to do something · I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your help.take the opportunity of doing something · I'm going to take every opportunity of going to see Brian while he's living in Germany.
informal to quickly use an opportunity to do something, especially when you think you might not get another chance: · It may be the last time he offers you the job so I'd grab the chance while you can.grab the chance to do something: · Knowing how difficult it is to find a job I grabbed the chance to be trained as an electrician.
to eagerly and quickly use an opportunity to do something: · The early retirement plan is excellent and I'm surprised that people haven't jumped at the opportunity.jump at the chance/opportunity to do something: · When the resort was put up for sale, the Millers jumped at the chance to buy it.· She thought Lewis would jump at the opportunity to make some extra money on weekends.jump at the chance/opportunity of doing something: · Who wouldn't jump at the chance of spending a month in Australia?
to do something quickly, while you are in a situation in which you are most likely to be successful: · Don't wait until tomorrow before you tell him, strike while the iron is hot!
spoken to take the opportunity to do something now while the conditions are good, because you might not be able to do it later: · Let's make hay while the sun shines and finish this project before I start falling asleep.
someone who always looks for and takes opportunities that might make them more successful -- used to show disapproval: · It is difficult to tell whether he really wants to help May or whether he is just an opportunist.· As the finance company started to fail a few opportunists managed to make more money out of it.
WORD SETSanorak, nounarm, nounascot, nounBabygro, nounbalaclava, nounbandanna, nounbaseball cap, nounbasque, nounbathing cap, nounbathing costume, nounbathing suit, nounbathing trunks, nounbathrobe, nounbath towel, nounbeachwear, nounbeading, nounbeanie, nounbearskin, nounbell-bottoms, nounbelt, nounbelted, adjectiveberet, nounbespoke, adjectivebib, nounbikini, nounblack-tie, adjectiveblazer, nounblouse, nounblue jeans, nounboa, nounbobble, nounbobble hat, nounbobby socks, nounbodice, nounbody, nounbody stocking, nounbody suit, nounboiler suit, nounbolero, nounbolo tie, nounbomber jacket, nounbonnet, nounboob tube, nounboot, nounbootee, nounbootlace, nounbottom, nounboxer shorts, nounbra, nounbraid, nounbrassiere, nounbreeches, nounbritches, nounbrogue, nounBurberry, business suit, nounbustle, nouncaftan, nouncagoule, nouncamiknickers, nouncamisole, nouncap, nouncape, nouncardigan, nouncare label, nouncarpet slipper, nouncassock, nouncast-offs, nouncasual, adjectivecat suit, nounchemise, nounchinos, nounchinstrap, nouncloak, nouncloche, nounclog, nouncloth cap, nouncoat, nouncoattails, nouncocked hat, nouncony, nouncoonskin, adjectivecope, nouncorset, nouncourt shoe, nouncouture, nouncowboy hat, nouncowl, nouncowl neck, nouncrew neck, nouncrinoline, nouncuff, nounculottes, nouncummerbund, nouncut, noundeck shoe, noundeerstalker, noundelicates, nounderby, noundicky, noundinner jacket, noundog collar, noundonkey jacket, noundouble-breasted, adjectivedoublet, noundrainpipe trousers, noundrawstring, noundress, noundressing gown, noundress shirt, noundress uniform, noundrip-dry, adjectivedry-clean, verbdry cleaner's, nounduffel coat, noundungarees, nounduster, nounearmuffs, nounelbow, nounensemble, nounespadrille, nounevening dress, nounfalsies, nounfashion, nounfashion show, nounfastener, nounfeather boa, nounfeathered, adjectivefez, nounfishnet stockings, nounfitting, nounfitting room, nounflannel, nounflannelette, nounflat, adjectiveflat cap, nounfleece, nounflip-flops, nounflipper, nounfloor-length, adjectiveflounce, nounflounced, adjectivefly, nounfootwear, nounformal, nounfox, nounfray, verbfrilly, adjectivefrock, nounfrock coat, nounfull, adjectivefull dress, nounfur, nounfuzz, noungabardine, noungaiter, noungaloshes, noungarment, noungarter, noungarter belt, noungather, verbgather, noungathering, noungauntlet, noungear, noungetup, noungirdle, nounglove, noungloved, adjectivegown, noungreatcoat, nounG-string, noungumboot, noungusset, noungym shoe, noungymslip, nounhaberdasher, nounhaberdashery, nounhalter, nounhand-me-down, nounhanger, nounhankie, nounhard-wearing, adjectivehat, nounhatpin, nounhatter, nounheadband, nounheaddress, nounheadscarf, nounhem, nounhem, verbhemline, nounhip pocket, nounhobnailed, adjectivehomburg, nounhooded, adjectivehook and eye, nounhose, nounhosiery, nounhot pants, nounhousecoat, nouninformal, adjectiveinsole, nouninstep, nouniron, nouniron, verbironing, nounjackboot, nounjacket, nounjammies, nounjeans, nounjerkin, nounjersey, nounJockey shorts, nounjockstrap, nounjodhpurs, nounjogging suit, nounjumper, nounjumpsuit, nounkaftan, nounkerchief, nounkhakis, nounkilt, nounkimono, nounknee breeches, nounknickerbockers, nounknickers, nounlace, nounlace-up, nounlapel, nounleg, nounleggings, nounleotard, nounlinen, nounloafer, nounloincloth, nounlong, adjectivelong johns, nounlounge suit, nounlow, adjectivelow-cut, adjectiveLycra, nounmac, nounmackintosh, nounmantle, nounmasquerade, nounmatinée jacket, nounmenswear, nounmilliner, nounmillinery, nounmini, nounminiskirt, nounmink, nounmitt, nounmitten, nounmob cap, nounmoccasin, nounmoleskin, nounmonogram, nounmoon boot, nounmorning coat, nounmorning dress, nounmorning suit, nounmourning, nounmuff, nounmuffler, nounmukluks, nounmule, nounmuu-muu, nounname-tape, nounnational costume, nounnational dress, nounneck, nounneckerchief, nounnecktie, nounnegligee, nounnightcap, nounnightclothes, nounnightdress, nounnightgown, nounnightie, nounnightshirt, nounnightwear, nounnon-iron, adjectiveoff-the-peg, adjectiveoilskin, nounone-piece, adjectiveopen, adjectiveopen-necked, adjectiveouterwear, nounoutfitter, nounoutsize, adjectiveoverall, nounovercoat, nounoverdressed, adjectiveovershoe, nounoxford, nounpadded, adjectivepanama hat, nounpanel, nounpantaloons, nounpanties, nounpants, nounpantyhose, nounparka, nounpatch, nounpatch, verbpatent leather, nounpeak, nounpencil skirt, nounpetticoat, nounpillbox, nounpinafore, nounpinny, nounpith helmet, nounpj's, nounplimsoll, nounplus fours, nounpolo neck, nounpolo shirt, nounponcho, nounpre-shrunk, adjectivepull-on, adjectivepullover, nounputtee, nounpyjamas, nounraglan, adjectiveraincoat, nounrainproof, adjectiveready-to-wear, adjectiveregalia, nounrevealing, adjectiverobe, nounrobed, adjectiverubber boot, nounruff, nounruffle, nounrun, verbrun, nounsable, nounsaddle shoe, nounsailor suit, nounsandal, nounsari, nounsarong, nounsartorial, adjectivesash, nounsatchel, nounscarf, nounschool tie, nounscoop neck, nounseamed, adjectiveseamless, adjectiveseparates, nounshawl, nounshell suit, nounshirt, nounshirtfront, nounshirt tail, nounshoe, nounshoehorn, nounshoelace, nounshoemaker, nounshoestring, nounshoulder, nounshoulder strap, nounshowerproof, adjectivesinglet, nounskin-tight, adjectiveskirt, nounskull cap, nounslicker, nounslingback, nounslip, nounslip-ons, nounslipper, nounsmock, nounsmoking jacket, nounsmuggling, nounsnap, nounsnappy, adjectivesneaker, nounsnowshoe, nounsnug, adjectivesock, nounsole, nounsole, verbsombrero, nounsou'wester, nounsox, nounsporran, nounsport coat, nounsport jacket, nounsports coat, nounsport shirt, nounsports jacket, nounsports shirt, nounsporty, adjectivestay, nounStetson, nounstiletto, nounstocking, nounstole, nounstone-washed, adjectivestraitjacket, nounstrip, nounstud, nounsuit, nounsundress, nounsun hat, nounsurplice, nounsuspender belt, nounsweatband, nounsweater, nounsweatpants, nounsweatshirt, nounsweat suit, nounswimming costume, nounswimming trunks, nounswimsuit, nounswimwear, nountailcoat, nountank top, nountee shirt, nounten-gallon hat, nounTerylene, nounthermal, adjectivethong, nounthree-piece suit, nountights, nountoga, nountop, nountopcoat, nountopee, nountop hat, nountopi, nountopper, nountracksuit, nountrain, nountrench coat, nountrilby, nountrousers, nountrouser suit, nounT-shirt, nountube top, nountuck, verbtuck, nountunic, nounturban, nounturtleneck, nountutu, nountuxedo, nountweed, nountwinset, nountwo-piece, adjectiveunderclothes, noununderdressed, adjectiveundergarment, noununderpants, nounundershirt, noununderwear, nounundies, noununiform, noununiformed, adjectiveunion suit, nounupper, nounveil, nounvelour, nounvelvet, nounvisor, nounvoluminous, adjectivewaist, nounwaistband, nounwaistcoat, nounwaistline, nounwardrobe, nounwashing, nounwaterproof, nounwear, nounwedding dress, nounwellie, nounwellington, nounwelly, nounwet-look, adjectivewet suit, nounwimple, nounwind breaker, nounwing collar, nounwingtip, nounwool, nounwoollen, adjectivewoollens, nounwoolly, adjectivewoolly, nounworsted, nounwrap, nounwrap-around, adjectivewrinkle, nounwristband, nounY-fronts, nounyoke, nounzoot suit, noun
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRY
the iron and steel industry iron ore (=rock that contains iron)COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES He had a perfect alibi and the police let him go. Some elderly people suffer from iron deficiency in their diet. an iron foundry The shoes had metal plates attached to the heels. The walls are reinforced with steel rods.
the iron and steel industry iron ore (=rock that contains iron) He had a perfect alibi and the police let him go.· The iron bridge was built in 1811.
Some elderly people suffer from iron deficiency in their diet.· Who does the cooking in your family?
an iron foundry· Their way was barred by huge wrought-iron gates.
(=a very strong grip)· Victor took hold of her wrist in an iron grip.
The shoes had metal plates attached to the heels. The walls are reinforced with steel rods.· She's on iron tablets for her anaemia.
(also a will of iron) (=an extremely strong will)· Her unassuming manner concealed an iron will.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADJECTIVE· The first telephone boxes were designed by Sir Giles Scott in 1935, they were made of cast iron.· They're shipping out cast iron baths, washbasins and tiles to the Land of the Rising Sun.· Left: Combine heating and cooking with traditional cast iron stove style.· Anyone want a cast iron bath?· Built in 1836-9, it weighs 1,700t, holds 940t of water and is the largest cast iron aqueduct in the world.· Columns of cast iron doubled as drainpipes and supports for the ceiling, which had domed skylights.· It replaces two ole cast iron systems and will significantly increase production.· Repairing leaks in cast iron gutters Remove the old gutter bolt.
· Their planking was patched with corrugated iron, their roofs shingled with flattened tin cans.· From then on, Stafford Road was flanked by a long black corrugated iron fence.· Instead I was directed to a three-roomed brick house with corrugated iron roofing.· Refurbished on a budget of £20, the shop is kitted out with old tyres, corrugated iron and scaffolding.· A ground party was immediately organised to manhandle the aircraft on to sheets of corrugated iron positioned on the tarmac.· I fancied that except for a few corrugated iron roofs it still looked the same as when he had been here.· The mill still stands and is a curious mixture of brick, elm, slate and corrugated iron.· Instead, they are either covered with a corrugated iron roof or are in the street.
· The blood from my wound ran over my back and chest, and the knife seemed to burn like hot iron.· In order for this separation to have taken place, the interior must have become hot enough for iron to melt.· This involved either burning the skin over the tendon, or inserting red hot iron pins into the tendon itself.· It will pay to have a tough template for cutting by scalpel, hot iron or roller-cutter.· In general, designers no longer work with a heap of transistors and a hot soldering iron.· He tried to scream the name but his throat felt as if it had been cauterized with a hot iron.
· The candlelight revealed that the room was packed with old iron bathtubs which were full of wooden rocking horses.· Shreds of plastic, old iron, glass, animal bones littered both sides of the path.· An old galvanised iron cistern is liable to spring a leak eventually.· His head must have fallen almost directly on top of one of the tall spikes that surmounted the old iron rail.· Eventually, though, old cast iron systems will need repair.· As we swept down to the seam in the old iron lift we all grabbed each other's hands in simultaneous panic.· Getting rid of PAHs requires the replacement of old cast iron mains lined with coal tar paper.
· The wrought iron gate, as usual, was open and he parked in front of the house.· Each side has a cast iron arch in 7 segments from which the iron trough is hung by 35 wrought iron rods.· Steel, however, rusts much more quickly than wrought iron.· Decorative projecting bricks, alcoves, wrought iron gates, and so on, are a security risk.· There was a fancy grille like a wrought iron gate at the rear end of the dash under the stairs.· Gates gone: Tyneside police are investigating a spate of thefts of wrought iron garden gates.· The stained-glass windows inside, and the black wrought iron and living or artificial flowers outside, contribute vivid accents.· Stripped floorboards teamed up with rattan furniture and wrought iron gives a look that complements.
NOUN· It was found in what was a pool in the iron age.· The Barbarians were knocking about in the late bronze age and iron age.· Madsebakke - unique iron Age rock carvings.
· All the ground floor windows were fitted with iron bars, a sufficient deterrent for the average break-and-enter boys.· Dignified old rowhouses on historic Mount Vernon Square were marred by iron bars on their windows.· A somewhat different system simulated the effect of momentarily jamming an iron bar across the terminals in the substation.· A heavy iron bar lay on the floor beside my left hand.· And no sign of chains or a whip or iron bars.· The windows are guarded with iron bars, those on the lower floors viciously spiked to keep out thieves.· A framework of iron bars is placed across the top and this supports fine mesh netting.· They ceased to be fortresses protected by strong doors and iron bars and became elegant shops with windows in place of grilles.
· The floodwater, carrying branches and driftwood, was over the roadway on the curved iron bridge.· Called Tickford Bridge, it is said to be the oldest iron bridge in Britain still in constant use.
· The huge beast strained at the great iron chain clasped to the collar round its neck.· Frederick's bed is said to be still in the palace, hanging from iron chains.· The prisoners wore handcuffs, and iron chains on their legs.· On the floor beside her was a convict's iron chain.· I felt sure the iron chain belonged to my convict, but I did not think he had attacked my sister.· Above it, hanging from an old iron chain, hung a bevelled mirror.· He was dressed in grey, too, and had an iron chain on his leg.
· Crohn's disease is often associated with iron deficiency anaemia.· Ten patients had died all unrelated to the iron deficiency anaemia.· Therefore sigmoidoscopy should be mandatory as part of the investigation of patients with iron deficiency anaemia.· The need for sigmoidoscopy in patients with obscure iron deficiency anaemia is contentious.· This survey also allowed us to analyse the usefulness of investigations in iron deficiency anaemia in outpatients.· The need to investigate the colon in outpatients referred with iron deficiency anaemia has not previously been assessed.· Severe erosive oesophagitis may be a cause of iron deficiency anaemia but hiatus hernia alone seems unlikely to cause iron deficiency anaemia.
· Nowadays we need the iron fist of policing in order that we might sleep soundly in our beds.· Ace swung round, her gauntlets curled into iron fists.· The protuberance under her fingers felt soft and hard at the same time, an iron fist in a velvet glove.
· Along the length of the railway line were timber yards, rope works, maltings and an iron foundry.· Livings was their architect for the iron foundry at Stockton, which John now had ideas of enlarging.· They also make more noise than two iron foundries having a fight.
· Within a dozen yards, I came to a set of iron gates closing off the steps east of the high altar.· An ornate iron gate presided over its entrance.· They walked towards the tall iron gates of the school.· The wrought iron gate, as usual, was open and he parked in front of the house.· Each house had an iron gate and a short tiled path up to the front door.· I awoke to find myself still standing before the water-colour painting of the curled iron gate.· Decorative projecting bricks, alcoves, wrought iron gates, and so on, are a security risk.· At the entrance to the driveway were large iron gates.
· She was just about to call out when she felt the iron grip of an arm clasped round her throat.· So although Milosevic s iron grip over Kosovo was an embarrassment for the West, it was a convenience too.
· Its political platform is brief: the iron hand against Communism to save private enterprise.· This theology slipped over the iron hand of the capitalist market like a silk glove.· Smith said that Coleman was a dictator and monopolist, ruling with an iron hand in military and civil life.· The iron hand of the Conservative administration's first 5 years gave way to sermons on personal responsibility.
· From now on, these items will be included in the existing export ban of leg irons, shackles and gang chains.· Only the eerie tinkle of leg irons and shouted commands break the silence.· Prohibited items should include gallows and leg irons.· The first man picked up the end and threaded it through the loop on his leg iron.· There they had spent fourteen days in solitary confinement, chained in heavy leg irons and fed only on dry rice.· The leg irons of the white prisoners inside were clattering.
· Hospitals often grouped iron lungs in the open space around the nurses' station or even in view in the hallways.· Encased in iron lungs, tortured victims vainly chased slumber through long, fitful nights.· Ideally, hospitals provided each iron lung patient a single nurse, but few hospitals could manage that, especially during epidemics.· When possible, nurses took patients out of their iron lungs for bathing and cleaning.
· Many of the ships also carried iron ore.· Supplies of the raw material, iron ore, changed.· The greater abundance of iron ores over those of copper also meant that iron was more readily obtainable and cheaper.· These ironworks were built in 173 6 and were worked for 130 years, exploiting local iron ore deposits.· The iron and steel industry of Rotherham exists because long ago iron ore was mined locally as well as coal.· Most of this local iron ore was mined from shallow pits and from adits dug into the valley sides.· Here there are thick deposits of iron ore near the base of some rocks of oolitic limestone which are of Jurassic age.· The iron ore is easily extracted by quarrying with giant excavators.
· One of the most popular has been carnelian, which owes its reddish colour to the presence of iron oxide.· The gas was to reduce iron oxide to make iron which could later be fed to a steel works.· Rust, iron oxide, is weak mechanically although its chemical bonds are strong.· Traditionally, iron oxide is converted to the metal in a blast furnace.· This coloration shows the presence of iron oxides.· Mineralisation within the nodules consists of uranium, vanadium and iron oxides with base metal sulphides.
· Terrified, Mildred backed away and crashed into something hard, which seemed to be a huge iron railing towering above her.· He paused when he saw her by the iron railings that separated mown lawn from pasture.· The cottage still has a panel of slender iron railings in front.· She could see the iron railings of the park, the glitter of wet pavement.· The hideous iron railings round the tombs of the more opulent dead were intended to protect them against the depredations of body-snatchers.· The iron railings were so dusty, they looked grey, not black.· Nightshade House was separated from the street by a flagged courtyard, the general approach defended by iron railings.· The Mount was a shadow in the air and the iron railings along the promenade dripped globules of moisture.
· Each side has a cast iron arch in 7 segments from which the iron trough is hung by 35 wrought iron rods.· It led to the birth of the jumper a slender iron rod with a chisel-end forged by the mine smiths.
· I have one rule - I never use a steam iron on my lace jumpers.· It is the vapour tank that is the key to the machine's alleged superiority over other steam irons.· Throwaway society Over the last year, I have had to replace my steam iron and hairdryer that had both developed faults.· The old cracked mug, the steam iron, odd pieces of cutlery and the reading lamp.· I could not live without a steam iron, or an electric kettle.
VERB· And keeping in shape with her is a lot better than pumping iron.· Before I met her I used to pump iron.· They pump iron for hours every morning.· Yes, even his face was muscular, as though he pumped iron with his ears.· In any case, farmer's boys have no time to make hay before they are pumping iron not milk.
· Maybe he would even mount a punitive expedition tonight, striking while the iron was hot, and all that.· So, it should strike while the iron is hot and go to the country as soon as possible.
PHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES► clap somebody in prison/jail/irons► galvanized iron/metal etc► rule somebody/something with a rod of iron► rule somebody with an iron fist/hand► iron out the wrinkles
1metal [uncountable] a common hard metal that is used to make steel, is magnetic, and is found in very small quantities in food and blood. It is a chemical element: symbol Fe: - According to Ken Harris, she has a cast-iron alibi.
- Do not expect a cast-iron guarantee of success.
- And keeping in shape with her is a lot better than pumping iron.
- Before I met her I used to pump iron.
- In any case, farmer's boys have no time to make hay before they are pumping iron not milk.
- They pump iron for hours every morning.
- Yes, even his face was muscular, as though he pumped iron with his ears.
- Don't wait until tomorrow before you tell him, strike while the iron is hot!
- So, it should strike while the iron is hot and go to the country as soon as possible.
the iron and steel industry a driveway with large iron gates iron ore (=rock that contains iron) the absorption of iron from food → wrought iron, cast iron2for clothes [countable] a thing used for making clothes smooth, which has a heated flat metal base3have several irons in the fire to be involved in several different activities or have several plans all happening at the same time: He has several economic irons in the fire, including gold and diamond mines.4sport [countable] a golf club made of metal rather than wood: a 5-iron5chains irons [plural] especially literary a chain used to prevent a prisoner from moving: leg irons → a will of iron/an iron will at will2(1), → pump iron at pump2(8), → rule somebody/something with a rod of iron at rule2(5), → strike while the iron’s hot at strike1(28)iron1 nouniron2 verbiron3 adjective
ironiron2 ●●● S3 verb [transitive] VERB TABLE
iron
| Simple Form | ||
| Present | I, you, we, they | iron |
| he, she, it | irons | |
| Past | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | ironed |
| Present perfect | I, you, we, they | have ironed |
| he, she, it | has ironed | |
| Past perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | had ironed |
| Future | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will iron |
| Future perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will have ironed |
| Continuous Form | ||
| Present | I | am ironing |
| he, she, it | is ironing | |
| you, we, they | are ironing | |
| Past | I, he, she, it | was ironing |
| you, we, they | were ironing | |
| Present perfect | I, you, we, they | have been ironing |
| he, she, it | has been ironing | |
| Past perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | had been ironing |
| Future | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will be ironing |
| Future perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will have been ironing |
EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- I need to iron a few shirts for my trip.
- But he conceded that there were some kinks to iron out.
- She ironed their tiny strips of white embroidered cuffs and collars herself, and sewed them on fresh nearly every day.
- The finer details of the proposals from Environment Secretary Michael Heseltine still have to be ironed out.
Longman Language Activatorto successfully deal with a problem
· They thought money would solve all their problems.· The roof used to leak but last week I fitted some new tiles and that seems to have solved the problem.· The government is to launch a new building programme in an attempt to solve the housing crisis.
to think of a way to solve a problem, especially a complicated political or social problem: · Crime is rapidly increasing in our inner cities. We must find a solution.· Civil war seems increasingly likely unless the government comes up with a solution.find/come up with a solution to: · European governments are working together to find a solution to the problem of nuclear waste.
formal to successfully deal with a problem or unpleasant situation so that it no longer exists: · Talking is the only way to resolve your differences.· It is difficult to see how this conflict can be resolved without taking the matter to court.
to deal with an unsatisfactory situation, especially by making sure that any damage that has been caused is paid for, removed, stopped etc: put something right: · There seems to be something wrong with the computer but we hope to put it right before too long.· If there is bullying in the classroom, it is the teacher who should put the problem right.put right something: · This government intends to put right everything that the last government did wrong.
to permanently solve a practical problem so that it does not happen again: · If your computer stops working, re-booting might cure the problem.· Beveridge believed that unemployment could be cured by state intervention.
to deal with an unsatisfactory situation, especially an unfair one, so that the situation no longer exists or is greatly improved: · There have been several tragic rail accidents. The government must act quickly to remedy this situation.· Equal rights for women were necessary to remedy the injustices done to them over the centuries.
to remove any problems or difficulties from a situation, especially before doing something else: sort something out: · I'm afraid I can't help you until I've sorted my own problems out.sort things out: · There's been a serious misunderstanding; I'll try to sort things out and then I'll phone you back.sort out something: · You can't possibly start decorating yet. We haven't sorted out the roof yet.get something sorted out: · I want to get everything sorted out before I leave.
British informal to successfully deal with a problem: · Don't worry about the money. I'll sort it, OK?· You should be able to sort this without my help.
to remove any small problems or difficulties before you start something, especially by discussing them, so that they do not cause problems later: iron something out: · We need to iron a few things out before we move in together.iron out something: · We decided it was best to iron out our differences at an early stage in the production.
WORD SETSanorak, nounarm, nounascot, nounBabygro, nounbalaclava, nounbandanna, nounbaseball cap, nounbasque, nounbathing cap, nounbathing costume, nounbathing suit, nounbathing trunks, nounbathrobe, nounbath towel, nounbeachwear, nounbeading, nounbeanie, nounbearskin, nounbell-bottoms, nounbelt, nounbelted, adjectiveberet, nounbespoke, adjectivebib, nounbikini, nounblack-tie, adjectiveblazer, nounblouse, nounblue jeans, nounboa, nounbobble, nounbobble hat, nounbobby socks, nounbodice, nounbody, nounbody stocking, nounbody suit, nounboiler suit, nounbolero, nounbolo tie, nounbomber jacket, nounbonnet, nounboob tube, nounboot, nounbootee, nounbootlace, nounbottom, nounboxer shorts, nounbra, nounbraid, nounbrassiere, nounbreeches, nounbritches, nounbrogue, nounBurberry, business suit, nounbustle, nouncaftan, nouncagoule, nouncamiknickers, nouncamisole, nouncap, nouncape, nouncardigan, nouncare label, nouncarpet slipper, nouncassock, nouncast-offs, nouncasual, adjectivecat suit, nounchemise, nounchinos, nounchinstrap, nouncloak, nouncloche, nounclog, nouncloth cap, nouncoat, nouncoattails, nouncocked hat, nouncony, nouncoonskin, adjectivecope, nouncorset, nouncourt shoe, nouncouture, nouncowboy hat, nouncowl, nouncowl neck, nouncrew neck, nouncrinoline, nouncuff, nounculottes, nouncummerbund, nouncut, noundeck shoe, noundeerstalker, noundelicates, nounderby, noundicky, noundinner jacket, noundog collar, noundonkey jacket, noundouble-breasted, adjectivedoublet, noundrainpipe trousers, noundrawstring, noundress, noundressing gown, noundress shirt, noundress uniform, noundrip-dry, adjectivedry-clean, verbdry cleaner's, nounduffel coat, noundungarees, nounduster, nounearmuffs, nounelbow, nounensemble, nounespadrille, nounevening dress, nounfalsies, nounfashion, nounfashion show, nounfastener, nounfeather boa, nounfeathered, adjectivefez, nounfishnet stockings, nounfitting, nounfitting room, nounflannel, nounflannelette, nounflat, adjectiveflat cap, nounfleece, nounflip-flops, nounflipper, nounfloor-length, adjectiveflounce, nounflounced, adjectivefly, nounfootwear, nounformal, nounfox, nounfray, verbfrilly, adjectivefrock, nounfrock coat, nounfull, adjectivefull dress, nounfur, nounfuzz, noungabardine, noungaiter, noungaloshes, noungarment, noungarter, noungarter belt, noungather, verbgather, noungathering, noungauntlet, noungear, noungetup, noungirdle, nounglove, noungloved, adjectivegown, noungreatcoat, nounG-string, noungumboot, noungusset, noungym shoe, noungymslip, nounhaberdasher, nounhaberdashery, nounhalter, nounhand-me-down, nounhanger, nounhankie, nounhard-wearing, adjectivehat, nounhatpin, nounhatter, nounheadband, nounheaddress, nounheadscarf, nounhem, nounhem, verbhemline, nounhip pocket, nounhobnailed, adjectivehomburg, nounhooded, adjectivehook and eye, nounhose, nounhosiery, nounhot pants, nounhousecoat, nouninformal, adjectiveinsole, nouninstep, nouniron, nouniron, verbironing, nounjackboot, nounjacket, nounjammies, nounjeans, nounjerkin, nounjersey, nounJockey shorts, nounjockstrap, nounjodhpurs, nounjogging suit, nounjumper, nounjumpsuit, nounkaftan, nounkerchief, nounkhakis, nounkilt, nounkimono, nounknee breeches, nounknickerbockers, nounknickers, nounlace, nounlace-up, nounlapel, nounleg, nounleggings, nounleotard, nounlinen, nounloafer, nounloincloth, nounlong, adjectivelong johns, nounlounge suit, nounlow, adjectivelow-cut, adjectiveLycra, nounmac, nounmackintosh, nounmantle, nounmasquerade, nounmatinée jacket, nounmenswear, nounmilliner, nounmillinery, nounmini, nounminiskirt, nounmink, nounmitt, nounmitten, nounmob cap, nounmoccasin, nounmoleskin, nounmonogram, nounmoon boot, nounmorning coat, nounmorning dress, nounmorning suit, nounmourning, nounmuff, nounmuffler, nounmukluks, nounmule, nounmuu-muu, nounname-tape, nounnational costume, nounnational dress, nounneck, nounneckerchief, nounnecktie, nounnegligee, nounnightcap, nounnightclothes, nounnightdress, nounnightgown, nounnightie, nounnightshirt, nounnightwear, nounnon-iron, adjectiveoff-the-peg, adjectiveoilskin, nounone-piece, adjectiveopen, adjectiveopen-necked, adjectiveouterwear, nounoutfitter, nounoutsize, adjectiveoverall, nounovercoat, nounoverdressed, adjectiveovershoe, nounoxford, nounpadded, adjectivepanama hat, nounpanel, nounpantaloons, nounpanties, nounpants, nounpantyhose, nounparka, nounpatch, nounpatch, verbpatent leather, nounpeak, nounpencil skirt, nounpetticoat, nounpillbox, nounpinafore, nounpinny, nounpith helmet, nounpj's, nounplimsoll, nounplus fours, nounpolo neck, nounpolo shirt, nounponcho, nounpre-shrunk, adjectivepull-on, adjectivepullover, nounputtee, nounpyjamas, nounraglan, adjectiveraincoat, nounrainproof, adjectiveready-to-wear, adjectiveregalia, nounrevealing, adjectiverobe, nounrobed, adjectiverubber boot, nounruff, nounruffle, nounrun, verbrun, nounsable, nounsaddle shoe, nounsailor suit, nounsandal, nounsari, nounsarong, nounsartorial, adjectivesash, nounsatchel, nounscarf, nounschool tie, nounscoop neck, nounseamed, adjectiveseamless, adjectiveseparates, nounshawl, nounshell suit, nounshirt, nounshirtfront, nounshirt tail, nounshoe, nounshoehorn, nounshoelace, nounshoemaker, nounshoestring, nounshoulder, nounshoulder strap, nounshowerproof, adjectivesinglet, nounskin-tight, adjectiveskirt, nounskull cap, nounslicker, nounslingback, nounslip, nounslip-ons, nounslipper, nounsmock, nounsmoking jacket, nounsmuggling, nounsnap, nounsnappy, adjectivesneaker, nounsnowshoe, nounsnug, adjectivesock, nounsole, nounsole, verbsombrero, nounsou'wester, nounsox, nounsporran, nounsport coat, nounsport jacket, nounsports coat, nounsport shirt, nounsports jacket, nounsports shirt, nounsporty, adjectivestay, nounStetson, nounstiletto, nounstocking, nounstole, nounstone-washed, adjectivestraitjacket, nounstrip, nounstud, nounsuit, nounsundress, nounsun hat, nounsurplice, nounsuspender belt, nounsweatband, nounsweater, nounsweatpants, nounsweatshirt, nounsweat suit, nounswimming costume, nounswimming trunks, nounswimsuit, nounswimwear, nountailcoat, nountank top, nountee shirt, nounten-gallon hat, nounTerylene, nounthermal, adjectivethong, nounthree-piece suit, nountights, nountoga, nountop, nountopcoat, nountopee, nountop hat, nountopi, nountopper, nountracksuit, nountrain, nountrench coat, nountrilby, nountrousers, nountrouser suit, nounT-shirt, nountube top, nountuck, verbtuck, nountunic, nounturban, nounturtleneck, nountutu, nountuxedo, nountweed, nountwinset, nountwo-piece, adjectiveunderclothes, noununderdressed, adjectiveundergarment, noununderpants, nounundershirt, noununderwear, nounundies, noununiform, noununiformed, adjectiveunion suit, nounupper, nounveil, nounvelour, nounvelvet, nounvisor, nounvoluminous, adjectivewaist, nounwaistband, nounwaistcoat, nounwaistline, nounwardrobe, nounwashing, nounwaterproof, nounwear, nounwedding dress, nounwellie, nounwellington, nounwelly, nounwet-look, adjectivewet suit, nounwimple, nounwind breaker, nounwing collar, nounwingtip, nounwool, nounwoollen, adjectivewoollens, nounwoolly, adjectivewoolly, nounworsted, nounwrap, nounwrap-around, adjectivewrinkle, nounwristband, nounY-fronts, nounyoke, nounzoot suit, noun
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES He had a perfect alibi and the police let him go. Some elderly people suffer from iron deficiency in their diet. an iron foundry The shoes had metal plates attached to the heels. The walls are reinforced with steel rods.
He had a perfect alibi and the police let him go.· The iron bridge was built in 1811.
Some elderly people suffer from iron deficiency in their diet.· Who does the cooking in your family?
an iron foundry· Their way was barred by huge wrought-iron gates.
(=a very strong grip)· Victor took hold of her wrist in an iron grip.
The shoes had metal plates attached to the heels. The walls are reinforced with steel rods.· She's on iron tablets for her anaemia.
(also a will of iron) (=an extremely strong will)· Her unassuming manner concealed an iron will.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADVERB· It's about time he got his six iron out for a birdie.· Frequent face-to-face meetings iron out any problems and come up with interface and process improvements.· The finer details of the proposals from Environment Secretary Michael Heseltine still have to be ironed out.· And because the band went into a rehab center to iron out its differences, rumors spread about drug use.· Although the first generation of women priests had to fight to assert their identity, those problems have been ironed out.· The briefing indicated that the two sides still have substantial differences to iron out.· Most of the notorious grade anomalies have been ironed out and the colour photos should whet people's appetites.· As it happened, the resolution of this issue never really reached the stage of the researchers ironing out their differences.
NOUN· If something doesn't happen it's your responsibility to iron any problems out.· Frequent face-to-face meetings iron out any problems and come up with interface and process improvements.· They know exactly who can help you buy a train ticket, who can iron away which problem.
· Diana was so chummy with him she even used to iron his shirts.· Margaret had ironed me some shirts and draped them over a clothes-horse in the hail.· Well, he can iron his best shirts.· As the neatly ironed shirt billows out a special effect signifies the effects of Bold.· Do you want to iron his shirts for 50 years?
VERB· I wished for a new dress as I washed and ironed my old yellow home-made mini for the hundredth time.· Saturdays and she was tired and worn out with the cleaning, shopping, washing, ironing.· Encourage residents to wash and iron their clothes where their eyesight and co-ordination are good.· The following afternoon he struggled into the white loons, which he had washed and ironed himself.· All washing and ironing is outsourced.· She was soon taking in washing and ironing, the time-honored work of black women.
PHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES► clap somebody in prison/jail/irons► galvanized iron/metal etc► rule somebody/something with a rod of iron► rule somebody with an iron fist/hand► iron out the wrinkles
to make clothes smooth using an iron SYN press: - According to Ken Harris, she has a cast-iron alibi.
- Do not expect a cast-iron guarantee of success.
- And keeping in shape with her is a lot better than pumping iron.
- Before I met her I used to pump iron.
- In any case, farmer's boys have no time to make hay before they are pumping iron not milk.
- They pump iron for hours every morning.
- Yes, even his face was muscular, as though he pumped iron with his ears.
- Don't wait until tomorrow before you tell him, strike while the iron is hot!
- So, it should strike while the iron is hot and go to the country as soon as possible.
Have you ironed my shirt? → ironingiron something ↔ out phrasal verb to solve or get rid of problems or difficulties, especially small ones: We need to iron out a few problems first.iron1 nouniron2 verbiron3 adjective
ironiron3 adjective [only before noun] EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- iron discipline
- But he offered not only an iron fist to Hanoi there was a velvet glove also.
- He lay on his narrow iron bed, whose cheap cotton slip was decorated with repeated figures of Donald Duck.
- New Labour is itself a product of the iron cage.
- She went quickly; by afternoon, she was in the iron lung and she died the next morning.
- The addition of iron oxide produced a darker brown colour in the glaze under reducing conditions.
- This is a fast-paced, heartwarming story of a huge iron man who emerges from the sea to terrify the neighborhood.
- This is because the center of gravity of the hammer is in the iron part.
- Those that had iron gratings locked them across the plate glass.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRY He runs the company with an iron fist.COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES He had a perfect alibi and the police let him go. Some elderly people suffer from iron deficiency in their diet. an iron foundry The shoes had metal plates attached to the heels. The walls are reinforced with steel rods.
He runs the company with an iron fist. He had a perfect alibi and the police let him go.· The iron bridge was built in 1811.
Some elderly people suffer from iron deficiency in their diet.· Who does the cooking in your family?
an iron foundry· Their way was barred by huge wrought-iron gates.
(=a very strong grip)· Victor took hold of her wrist in an iron grip.
The shoes had metal plates attached to the heels. The walls are reinforced with steel rods.· She's on iron tablets for her anaemia.
(also a will of iron) (=an extremely strong will)· Her unassuming manner concealed an iron will.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSNOUN· But he offered not only an iron fist to Hanoi there was a velvet glove also.
· Privileges and prerogatives are revoked; the iron hand of supervisory control is brought to bear.
PHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES► clap somebody in prison/jail/irons► galvanized iron/metal etc► rule somebody/something with a rod of iron► rule somebody with an iron fist/hand► iron out the wrinkles
very firm and strong or determined: - According to Ken Harris, she has a cast-iron alibi.
- Do not expect a cast-iron guarantee of success.
- And keeping in shape with her is a lot better than pumping iron.
- Before I met her I used to pump iron.
- In any case, farmer's boys have no time to make hay before they are pumping iron not milk.
- They pump iron for hours every morning.
- Yes, even his face was muscular, as though he pumped iron with his ears.
- Don't wait until tomorrow before you tell him, strike while the iron is hot!
- So, it should strike while the iron is hot and go to the country as soon as possible.
He runs the company with an iron fist.